Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park?

Question

We'll depart Friday and leave on Sunday, so I guess that gives us about 1.5 to 2 days visitng time.
1st question) Will that give us enough time to visit BOTH parks?
2nd question) If I were to only choose one park, which should I choose and why?

We're just visiting the park(s) to see the overall best and famous sites; we're probably not going to cover every single mile inside the parks, so keep that in mind.

Answer 1

Fortunately you don't have to choose one or the other, you have more than enough time to do both parks. Canyonlands is basically a drive through park, just pull over in the parking lots and take in the views. It's the most beautiful place I have ever been in my life. Arches is a little more labor intensive. For example it takes hours to hike out to delicate arch (that's the famous one on the license plates). You don't have to hike out to the sights if you don't want to you can see alot of them from the parking lots, but there can definitely be a ton of hiking if you want. Make sure you take enough water, I can't stress this enough. It's very very hot there and there is almost no humidity. You need to stay hydrated. Check out the links below they have good info. This is going to be a great a vacation for you. My husband and I have been to both parks twice and we have the best memories. Truly two of the best vacations we've ever had.

Answer 2

I even have been to Moab to motorbike countless cases. I even have visited the Arches nationwide Park two times and Canyonlands as quickly as. Arches has a thrillingpersistent into the park and demands some a million/2 hour to an hour to stroll as much as the Arch (ordinarily uphill to the Arch). positioned on shoes and don't be afraid to climb down into the bowl once you get there. an apprehension of heights won't bode properly for a prevalent time customer. Canyonland is likewise extraordinarily dazzling (in a Grand Canyon style of way). The adventure isn't comparable to Arches on account that youpersistent/park/small hike to maximum attractions. I observed Canyonland as great sidetrip, requiring decrease than a pair hours at maximum to flow to the countless perspectives. Arches demands a extra attempt and time yet is properly worth it. between the two, for me, Arches could definately be the alternative. of course, cycling Slickrock beats the two.

Answer 3

You can do both parks in the 1.5 - 2 day period. We did it and thoroughly enjoyed it. They aren't that far apart, and you can add a short visit to Dead Horse Point state park just outside of Canyonlands. (Assuming you're visiting the northern part of Canyonlands which is the most popular). Spend an afternoon at Arches, then overnight in Moab, then spend most of the next day at Canyonlands. There are great short hikes at both places. Bring sunscreen and lots of cold water. Enjoy the quiet.

Answer 4

2 days will be enough time to see both parks. If you had to choose one, I would choose Arches. The hike to Delicate Arch is not a long hike, and it is not difficult either. I hiked to the arch with my mom who is in her mid 60's and she had no problem! Landscape arch is also a short easy hike. It is not just a drive through park, but many of the sights can be seen from your car. You must see Delicate Arch -- up close -- it will take your breath away! You can walk down into the bowl and over to the arch, touch it and climb on it a little.

Answer 5

These are both great parks. I love Canyon Lands but Arches is more spectacular as far as attractions. That's not much time to hit both parks but it is possible if you plan your time well. Moab is kind of a cool little town and a good base for seeing both parks although it is closer to the Arches. the distance between parks is approx. 200 miles and about 5 hours by car. (according to Google earth) I agree with Maigen_obx on basic descriptions but be sure to budget your time. Over two days you should be able to have some quality time in both parks. good luck